Various Types of Crawler-Mounted Cranes
Industrial wheel tractors in the 1920s, such as those made by McCormick-Deering and Fordson were quickly adapted in order to be able to power a large variety of equipment. For example, half-swing shovels and cranes were manufactured by some companies around the power train and engine of the tractor and the wheels became replaced by crawlers.
During the 1930s, crawler tractors came into widespread use. Soon after, many manufacturers started making attachments for them, like for example a range of lifting equipment devices.
For instance, side-mounted booms were mainly used for pipe-laying where it gained its nickname the "pipelayer." These machinery are now usually used for attending to cleaning up railroad derailments. Because of their mobility, size and compact design, in addition to exceptional lifting capacity, these kinds of machines are ideal for this use. Additionally, swing booms which mounted on top of the engine compartment also became available.
Similar to a crawler tractor, crawler cranes travel on crawler tracks. Due to their intense weight, these machines do not move really fast. Normally, the crane could be controlled by 2 or more cable operated drums and is powered by one engine. The crawler cranes are available with a telescopic arm or a lattice boom that could be extended easily using hydraulics. The lattice boom needs to be assembled manually by adding many sections.
Tower Cranes
Normally found in large construction projects, tower cranes are required to be erected and broken down on location. They must be transported by truck each time they are relocated. These tower cranes are exceptionally tall. They allow construction crews to move heavy steel or concrete building parts to the tops of tall buildings. Tower cranes use a hydraulic system in order to push every new crane part up into position and hence, are self-erecting.